Adjustable Ergonomic Keyboard

ABSTRACT

An adjustable ergonomic keyboard includes keyboard segments coupled by a joint allowing the keyboard segments to pivot relative to one another. A retainer secures a corresponding keyboard segment with respect to a base support and allows the corresponding retained keyboard segment to rotate thereabout and to travel laterally with respect to the base support. The base support may be part of a portable laptop chassis or body or may be a stand alone base for use of the keyboard as a peripheral data input device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication Nos. 61/165,386, filed Mar. 31, 2009; 61/250,402, filed Oct.9, 2009; and 61/295,093, filed Jan. 14, 2010.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The following invention relates generally to keyboards, and moreparticularly to adjustable ergonomic keyboard configurations integratedor integrable with a stand alone base or a portable computing device.

2. Description of the Related Art

Keyboards of the type used at computer terminals conventionally includea unitary board onto which alphanumeric keys are attached. It is often adisadvantage of such conventional keyboards that the wrists and/or armsand shoulders of a human user must be contorted into a configurationwhich may be stressful, particularly after prolonged use of thekeyboard. This problem is brought about by the fact that, in mostconventional unitary keyboard designs and key arrangements, the hands ofthe user must be turned outwardly by pivoting of the wrists relative tothe forearms, resulting in ulnar deviation. Discomfort to the usercaused by pronation of the wrists is also a problem with theseconventional keyboards. Pronated postures can also transmit stressesinto the neck and shoulders of the user.

It is generally desirable to reduce pronation and ulnar deviation of thewrists in computer keyboards. To that end, U.S. Pat. No. 6,984,081describes adjustable keyboards with at least two segments which aremovable relative to one another via a hinge or joint. By moving thesegments, the orientation of the user's wrists and hands can be adjustedto allow for reduction of ulnar deviation and pronation of the wrists.Successful commercial embodiments generally in accord with such a designinclude the Goldtouch® adjustable keyboard and the Goldtouch Go!™ travelkeyboard, both available from KeyOvation, LLC, Cedar Park, Tex.

Unfortunately, while adjustable ergonomic keyboards such as theaforementioned Goldtouch keyboard (and competing designs) providedesktop users with practical options to reduce pronation and ulnardeviation that may otherwise be associated with use of conventionalunitary detached keyboards, portable computing devices (includinglaptop-, notebook- or netbook-type computers) have few options otherthan connection (e.g., by USB cable) of an auxiliary adjustableergonomic keyboard. For some users, this may not be an attractivesolution.

Accordingly, improved solutions are desired.

SUMMARY

It has been discovered that an integrated, yet adjustable ergonomickeyboard may be provided using a design that accommodates simultaneoustenting and splaying of first and second keyboard segments that eachinclude on an upper surface thereof respective subsets of keys thattogether define a generally complete alphanumeric keyboard. A retainerextends from each of the first and second keyboard segments to retainthe respective keyboard segment with respect to a base support. Ingeneral, the base support may include a stand-alone desktop platform orbe integral (or integrable) with a portable computing device. Therespective retainers allow the corresponding retained keyboard segmentto rotate thereabout and to travel laterally with respect to the basesupport while retained. A joint couples the keyboard segments and allowsthe keyboard segments to pivot relative to one another.

Upward travel of the joint generally allows the keyboard segments topitch or “tent”, while at least one of the retainers allows an outeredge of the respective keyboard segment to travel laterally incorrespondence with the tenting. Lateral travel of the joint (typicallyin a direction toward a human user) allows the keyboard segments tosplay while each rotates correspondingly around an axis of a respectiveone of the retainers. Working together, the joint and retainers allowthe keyboard segments to simultaneously tent and splay, while retainedwith respect to the base support. Notwithstanding the forgoing,tenting-only or splaying-only embodiments or configurations may beprovided, if desired.

In some embodiments, the keyboard segments may be supplied in aconfiguration suitable for integration with a stand-alone base or aportable computing device, while in others, the keyboard segments may beintegrated with such a base or portable computing device when supplied.

In general, a variety of attachment configurations are contemplated. Forexample, in some embodiments, retainers are generally fixed torespective keyboard segments and opposing ends of the retainers areallowed to travel in suitably defined channels. For example, in someembodiments, channels are defined in the upper surface of the basesupport, one end of each of the retainers is connected to a respectiveone of the keyboard segments, and respective ones of the channels allowlateral travel of respective ones of the retainers across a portion ofthe upper surface in correspondence with tenting of the keyboardsegments. In some embodiments, suitable channels are instead defined ina lower surface of the keyboard segments. In some such embodiments,respective ones of the channels allow lateral travel of the keyboardsegments with respect to respective ones of the retainers, while anopposing end of each of the retainers is generally fixed to the basesupport. As before, the base support may include a stand-alone desktopplatform or be integral (or integrable) with a portable computingdevice.

In some embodiments, in a stowed position, the keyboard segments areretained at a first, closely spaced distance from the upper surface,whereas in one or more deployed positions, the keyboard segments areretained at a distance from the upper surface that exceeds the firstdistance and accommodates tenting action of the keyboard segments. Insome variations, deployed positions include at least one shifted forwardkeyboard position. In some cases, the retainers may also permit thekeyboard segments to be shifted or slid forward relative to a supportstructure.

In some embodiments, springs concentric with the retainers are used tourge the keyboard segments from the stowed position to at least one ofthe deployed positions. In some embodiments, the keyboard is moveablebetween stowed and deployed positions without the need for a spring orother biasing means. In some embodiments, one or more latches areprovided to retain the keyboard segments in the stowed position.

In some embodiments, a generally planar surface is provided that issuitable for desktop use or for affixing to an upper surface of aportable computing device, wherein the retainers are coupled to thegenerally planar surface. In some cases, the generally planar surface isconfigured as a keyboard attachment platform that itself provides stowedand deployed positions. In some cases, one or more channels (such aspreviously described) are defined in the generally planar surface andone end of each of the retainers is connected to a respective one of thekeyboard segments. The respective channel then allows lateral travel ofrespective ones of the retainers across a portion of the generallyplanar surface in correspondence with tenting of the keyboard segments.In other cases, one or more channels may instead be defined in a lowersurface of the keyboard segments. Respective ones of the channels thenallow lateral travel of the keyboard segments with respect to respectiveones of the retainers, and opposing ends of each of the retainers areattached to the base support.

In some embodiments, retainers each include, at a first end thereof, asurface frictionally engageable to restrict travel of the respectiveretainer in a corresponding channel. In some embodiments, a lockingmechanism is used to urge the frictionally engageable surfaces into aheld position and thereby maintaining the keyboard segments in a tentedposition, a splayed position or a tented and splayed position.Frictionally engageable surfaces of the retainers may exhibit an atleast partially convex profile, particularly if desirable to accommodate(at the corresponding end) at least some rotational freedom of movement.Likewise, the retainers each include at a second end thereof an at leastpartially convex end cap suitable for attaching the correspondingretainer while still allowing rotation freedom of movement incorrespondence with tenting action of the keyboard segments.

Another aspect of the invention features a portable computing deviceincluding a body portion; a screen containing lid portion hingedlyattached to the body portion. The body portion presents a generallyplanar keyboard attachment surface or base support having channelsdefined therein to receive retainers extending upward toward respectivefirst and second keyboard segments pivotably coupled at a joint. Thechannels are adapted to retain the respective retainers while allowingthe retainers to travel laterally with respect to the keyboardattachment surface in correspondence with tenting and splaying of thekeyboard segments. The keyboard segments each include on an uppersurface thereof a respective subset of keys that together define agenerally complete alphanumeric keyboard.

In some implementations the respective retainers allow the correspondingretained keyboard segment to rotate thereabout and to travel laterallywith respect to the keyboard attachment surface while retained.

Another aspect of the invention features an apparatus including firstand second keyboard segments each including on an upper surface thereofrespective subsets of keys that together define a generally completealphanumeric keyboard. A retainer extends from each of the first andsecond keyboard segments to retain the respective keyboard segment withrespect to a base support. The respective retainers allow thecorresponding retained keyboard segment to rotate thereabout and atleast one of the retained keyboard segments to travel laterally withrespect to the base support. A joint couples the keyboard segments andallows the keyboard segments to pivot relative to one another.

In some implementations, upward travel of the joint allows the keyboardsegments to tent, and at least one of the retainers allows an outer edgeof the respective keyboard segment to travel laterally relative to thebase support in correspondence with the tenting. Substantially lateraltravel of the joint allows the keyboard segments to splay while eachrotating correspondingly around a respective one of the retainers.

In some cases, the base support is an upper surface of a portablecomputing device. The base support defines at least one channel and eachof the retainers is connected to a respective one of the keyboardsegments, and wherein the respective channel allows lateral travel ofthe respective retainer across a portion of the base support incorrespondence with tenting of the keyboard segments.

In some implementations, at least one of the retainers includes at afirst end thereof a surface frictionally or matingly engageable with thebase support to restrict travel of the respective retainer in acorresponding channel.

In some implementations, the base support is a stand alone base and theapparatus is configured as a peripheral input device.

In some implementations, first and second data output connectors arepositioned respectively on the first and second keyboard segmentsadjacent the respective retainers. In some cases, both the respectiveretainer and data output connector are positioned substantially in anupper-outer quadrant of the respective keyboard segment.

In a particular implementation, the keyboard segments are configured toallow for at least one of splaying of about 30 degrees and tenting ofabout 30 degrees.

Another aspect of the invention features a portable computing deviceincluding a body portion and a screen containing lid portion hingedlyattached to the body portion. The body portion presents a keyboardattachment surface having at least one channel defined therein toreceive a retainer of one of a respective first and second keyboardsegment pivotably coupled at a joint, the channel adapted to allow theretainer to travel laterally with respect to the keyboard attachmentsurface in correspondence with tenting and splaying of the keyboardsegments.

In some implementations, a respective retainer allows the correspondingretained keyboard segment to rotate thereabout and to travel laterallywith respective to the keyboard attachment surface.

In some implementations, the keyboard is configured to allow for atleast one of splaying of about 30 degrees and tenting of about 30degrees.

In some implementations, closure of the screen containing laptop lidreturns the keyboard to a stowed position. In some implementations, thelaptop lid is prevented from closing while the keyboard is in a deployedposition.

In some implementations, the keyboard is disposed within a recess in thelaptop body such that the edges of the keyboard are disposed adjacent orbelow an upper portion of the laptop body. In some cases, a bezelsurrounds or partially encloses the keyboard retained in the laptopbody.

While the forgoing represents a description of certain illustrativeembodiments of the present invention, it is to be understood that theappended claims recite features of the present invention(s), and thatadditional embodiments are contemplated and may fall within the scope ofthe claims. Some aspects of the present invention, and in particularsome exemplary pivoting motions of a ball and socket type joint used toconnect first and second keyboard sections while allowing the tentingand splaying actions described herein will be understood by reference toU.S. Pat. No. 6,984,084 to Goldstein et al., the entirety of which isincorporated by reference herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention may be better understood, and its numerousobjects, features, and advantages made apparent to those skilled in theart by referencing the accompanying drawings.

FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2-5 depict various positions of an adjustable ergonomickeyboard integrated in a laptop computer application in accordance withsome implementations of the present invention.

FIG. 1A depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in a stowedposition. FIG. 1B depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboardin a released, but unlocked position.

FIG. 2 depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in a tentedand locked position.

FIG. 3 depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in a tented,splayed and locked position.

FIG. 4 depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in a tentedand locked position within a recess in the laptop body.

FIG. 5 depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in a tented,splayed and locked position extending partially beyond a recess in thelaptop body.

FIGS. 6A and 6B depict retained-end configurations suitable for allowinglateral travel in a channel and/or rotational freedom of movement forretainers employed in some implementations of the present invention.

FIG. 7 depicts a top plan view of channels defined in a surface toaccommodate lateral travel and/or rotational freedom of movement ofretainers in correspondence with stowed, tented and splayed positions ofan adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in accordance with someimplementations of the present invention.

FIG. 8 and the accompanying exploded detail of FIG. 9 illustratepositional relations between keyboard segments, retainers and channelsin stowed position of an adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard inaccord with some implementations and configurations of the presentinvention.

FIG. 10 and the accompanying exploded detail of FIG. 11 illustratepositional relations between keyboard segments, retainers and channelsin a released, but unlocked position of an adjustable integratedergonomic keyboard in accord with some implementations andconfigurations of the present invention.

FIG. 12 and the accompanying exploded detail of FIG. 13 illustratepositional relations between keyboard segments, retainers and channelsin a tented and locked position of an adjustable integrated ergonomickeyboard in accord with some implementations and configurations of thepresent invention.

FIG. 14 and the accompanying exploded detail of FIG. 15 illustratepositional relations between keyboard segments, retainers and channelsin a tented, splayed and locked position of an adjustable integratedergonomic keyboard in accord with some implementations andconfigurations of the present invention.

FIG. 16 depicts an extendible, and upwardly deployed, keyboard basesurface for use in conjunction with some implementations andconfigurations of an adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 17 depicts the keyboard base surface stowed in accord with someimplementations and configurations of the present invention.

FIGS. 18, 19, 20 and 21 depict various positions of an adjustableergonomic keyboard integrated with a base (for desktop use) inaccordance with some implementations of the present invention.

FIG. 18 depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in a stowedposition.

FIG. 19 depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in areleased, but unlocked position.

FIG. 20 depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in a tentedand locked position.

FIG. 21 depicts the adjustable integrated ergonomic keyboard in atented, splayed and locked position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, an adjustable ergonomic keyboard 2 isintegrated with a portable computer or a laptop 4. Keyboard 2 includesfirst and second keyboard segments 6, 8. Keyboard segments 6, 8 areattached to one another at a top portion by a hinge or joint 10 suchthat segments 6, 8 are mutually pivotable. Joint 10 provides multipledegrees of freedom of movement between segments 6, 8. Advantageously,joint 10 is adapted to allow pivoting in both horizontal and verticalplanes of the adjacent coupled keyboard segments 6, 8. Joint 10 my be aball and socket joint, living hinge, or combination of joints orstructures suitable to couple segments 6, 8 with the described degreesof freedom.

With reference to FIG. 1A, keyboard 2 may be inset or retained in afirst stowed position “A” during transport of laptop 4 or during use ofkeyboard 2 in a conventional keyboard position. With reference to FIG.1B, keyboard 2 is moveable from the stored position “A” to a partiallydeployed position “B,” in which segments 6, 8 are spaced with sufficientclearance from the body of laptop 4 to permit pivoting between segments6, 8 in the horizontal and/or vertical planes. For example, keyboard 2may “pop-up” an initial distance from the body of laptop 4 intopartially deployed position “B” to provide such clearance. Such “pop-up”deployment may be provided, for example, by release of a spring loadedstowed locking mechanism. In some implementations, the laptop bodyprovides sufficient clearance for tenting and/or splaying without theneed for initial “pop-up” clearance.

In partially deployed position “B,” adjustable integrated ergonomickeyboard 2 is in an unlocked position to be freely moved to a desiredoperating position. In alternative implementations, the body of laptop 4may be configured to allow pivoting of segments 6, 8 directly from astored position, for example, by providing sufficient clearance fromlaptop body contours surrounding keyboard 2.

Note that in some embodiments, such as that illustrated in FIGS. 2-3,surface contours of the laptop body may accommodate motion betweenstored and deployed positions. Such surface contours may include, forexample, tapered or rounded undercuts at the periphery of keyboard 2and/or recesses in the laptop body adjacent the periphery of keyboard 2.

In some embodiments, such as that illustrated in FIGS. 4-5, it may beadvantageous for keyboard 2 (or the laptop body) to be adapted to allowinitial tenting motion to then provide additional clearance for splayingmotion. For example, with reference to FIG. 4, keyboard 2 is initiallymovable from a stowed inset position within a recess in the laptop bodyto a tented position C within the recess. With reference to FIG. 5,keyboard 2 is then movable from tented position C to a tented andsplayed position D. In the tented and splayed position D, a portion ofthe keyboard extends beyond the recess in the laptop body over a portionof the laptop body that is adjacent the keyboard when in the stowedposition. Thus, keyboard 2 may be movable to partially extend over abezel, laptop cover or other structure provided along an outer edge ofkeyboard 2. In some cases, a portion of the keyboard may extend under anadjacent bezel or cover portion in the stowed position, for example, toaid in locking the keyboard in the stowed position.

In some cases, surface contours of a portion of the laptop body cover orbezel adjacent keyboard 2 may include, for example, tapered or roundedcontours at the periphery of keyboard 2 to provide clearance forsplaying of the keyboard segments. As previously discussed, verticalkeyboard segment movement may also be used to provide clearance forsplaying of the keyboard segments.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, segments 6, 8 are pivotable within avertical plane so that the center of keyboard 2 is elevated or pitchedto a “tented” position “C.” Tented position “C” reduces pronation anddecreases tension in the wrists and forearms of the user. Joint 10 canbe a ball and socket joint providing a range of movement in both thevertical and horizontal planes. In a particular implementation, joint 10allows tenting of at least about thirty degrees between base support 14and segments 6, 8. Similarly, joint 10 allows splaying of about thirtydegrees between segments 6, 8.

Keyboard 2 with joint 10 preferably allows users to select a desiredcombination of tenting and splaying positions within a fullergonomically acceptable range. In some implementations, users mayalternatively select an operational keyboard position from a combinationof available discrete vertical and horizontal positions. Suchpositioning may be achieved using multiple joints providing discretedegrees of freedom. Further discrete positioning may be provided via acombination of ratcheting joints, or the like. Alternatively, joint maybe a dimpled ball in a complementary socket arranged to provide variablepositioning of segments 6, 8 in any desired combination of tented andsplayed positions without regard to discrete positions or more limiteddegrees of freedom. Accordingly, joint 10 may be any coupling suitableto couple segments 6, 8 and to provide sufficient range of movement fortenting and splaying of segments 6, 8.

With reference to FIG. 3, segments 6, 8 are pivotable such that a frontedge of keyboard 2 may spread apart in at least a substantiallyhorizontal plane to a “splayed” position “D”. The splayed position “D”reduces ulnar deviation in the keyboard user. In the illustratedconfiguration, keyboard 2 is both tented and splayed, although in someembodiments, keyboard segments 6, 8 may be in a purely splayed or purelytented position.

With continued reference to FIG. 3, keyboard segments 6, 8 are movablysecured by retainers 12 to a base support 14 on an upper surface oflaptop 4. Base support 14 defines one or more retention channelsarranged to receive respective retainers 12 therein. Retainers 12 andchannels 16 cooperate to allow movement of segments 6, 8 from stowedposition “A” to tented position “C” and splayed position “D.”

“Retainer” as used herein refers to any structure suitable to securekeyboard segment 6, 8, to base support 14. Retainer 12 may be fixed ormoveable with one or more degrees of freedom relative to either ofsegments 6, 8 or base support 14 and still suitably retain segments 6,8. Retainers prevent separation of segments 6, 8 from base support 14and may allow segments 6, 8 while retained to base support 14.

In some illustrated embodiments, retainers 12 define a vertical orcolumnar extent. In many embodiments, not separately illustrated,however, retainers 12 have a minimal vertical extent and may becharacterized by low profile retainer features arranged to attachsegments 6, 8 to base support 14. For example, an hourglass or doublelobe type retainer with minimal distance between the lobes may be usedin complementary sockets and channels on keyboard segments 6, 8 and basesupport 14. Similarly, a head of retainer 12 may be received withinchannel 16 and present a protrusion connectable to keyboard segments 6,8 via snap-fit or other suitable connection. Accordingly, retainers 12are not limited to columnar, elongated, or other illustrated ordescribed configurations and may be any shape or construction suitableto retain segments 6, 8 to base support 14.

While base support 14 is depicted as defining two channels 16, eachcorresponding to one of segments 6, 8, it is understood that a singlechannel 16 in base support 14 can provide sufficient lateral movementfor tenting of segments 6, 8. Accordingly, descriptions or depictions ofmultiple channels may be understood to also generally apply toimplementations having but a single channel. In some cases, multiplechannels may provide design advantages as to visual symmetry of keyboard2 relative to the body of laptop 4 in either a stowed position oroperational position. In some cases, a single channel design may provideimproved ease of use by allowing a user to manipulate joint 10 with onehand and manually lock retainer 12 within a single channel 16.

“Channel” as used herein refers to a structure suitable to restrainretainer 12 in at least one direction, while permitting movement ofretainer 12 in another direction. For example, channel 16 may be a slot,groove, guide or track in the conventional sense of the word, but is notso limited. Channel 16 may be, for example a socket which restrainsretainer 12 from separation therefrom while permitting pivoting orrotational movement therein.

With reference now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, channel 16, 16′ is defined inbase support 14 to receive retainer 12, 12′ and allow for lateral traveland/or rotational freedom of movement of retainers 12, 12′. Base support14 may be a chassis surface or body panel surface of laptop 4, or anystructure suitable to serve as the support structure or foundation forsegments 6, 8 of keyboard 2 during deployment and use. Thus, while basesupport is depicted as a generally planar upper surface of laptop 4,lateral laptop surfaces and other structures may also be suitable. Forexample, base support 14 may be a panel or frame structure insertableinto a recess defined in the body of laptop 4. Alternatively, basesupport 14 may be a panel or frame structure constructed as a standalone base such that keyboard 2 may instead be used as a stand aloneperipheral input device, e.g., for connection to a desktop computer.

Base support 14 has defined therein, one or more channels 16,16′constructed to receive retainer 12, 12′, which is attached to acorresponding keyboard segment 6, 8. Channel 16, 16′ is constructed torestrain a retainer head 18, 18′ in a vertical plane and thereby retainsegment 6 or 8 to base support 14. Channel 16, 16′ is also constructedto provide clearance for retainer 12, 12′ to spin therein as keyboardsegments 6, 8 are splayed and for retainer 12, 12′ to slide therein assegments 6, 8 are tented. In some cases, only a fraction of an inch oflateral sliding clearance is sufficient to allow for full movement ofsegments 6, 8 into tented position “C.”

Similarly, rotation of retainer 12, 12′ within channel 16, 16′ may berestricted to a discrete range suitable to allow for full movement ofsegments 6, 8 into splayed position “D.” While retainer heads 18 and 18′are depicted as being substantially symmetrical shapes, in someimplementations, retainer head 18 may define an eccentric shape, e.g., acammed shape so as to impact upon sidewalls of channel 16 at one or bothextremes of a predetermined range of rotation. In some implementations,an eccentric or cammed retainer head 18 configuration may beadvantageous in locking or restricting retainer 12 in a fixed positionwithin channel 16. For example, a manual or powered actuator may urgeretainer head 18 to impact upon the sidewalls of channel 16.Accordingly, retainer head 18, 18′ may be constructed to provide freelateral movement and/or rotation within channel 16, 16′ in a firstorientation and to restrict lateral movement and/or rotation in a secondorientation.

With reference to FIG. 7, channel 16″ may provide various discretepositions or a positional path or network for retainer 12 to achieve arange of tenting and splaying positions of keyboard 2. Accordingly,channel 16 need not be limited to a single course or to a linear oruniform configuration, but may be curved, inclined, tapered, or thelike. Similarly, retainer 12 may be of any number of symmetrical orasymmetrical shapes and may include resilient or engaging features tofacilitate positional locking. For example, a resilient retainer head orconvex retainer head may provide frictional engagement with a taperedupper surface of channel 16. Alternatively, a serrated retainer headsurface may positively engage complimentary recesses on a channelsurface. Accordingly, any number of frictional, mating or positivelyengaging features may be used to restrict movement of retainers 12within channel 16.

With reference to FIG. 8 and the accompanying exploded detail of FIG. 9,keyboard segments 6, 8 are in a stowed position closely spaced to basesupport 14, with retainers 12 positioned accordingly within channels 16.While a particular columnar retainer is used to illustrate onefrictionally engageable configuration, the invention is not so limited,and any number of suitable retainer configurations, including lowprofile retainers, may be used. Keyboard 2 may be held in the stowedposition by retainers 12 or, alternatively, by a separate latchingmechanism. Suitable latching mechanism may provide releasableconnections via magnetic forces, snap-fit, positive engagement ofcomplementary features, and the like.

With reference to FIG. 9, in some implementations, keyboard segment 6 or8 may be biased towards a deployed position. For example, spring 20 mayurge keyboard segment 6 away from base support 14 into a partiallydeployed position. Spring 20 may be arranged concentric to retainer 12or may be alternatively suitably arranged between segment 6 and basesupport 14.

In some implementations, retainer head 18 may be biased by spring 20towards a top or bottom surface of channel 16 to restrict movement ofretainer 12 within the channel. For example, a spring may restrictmovement of retainer 12 in a first default position and may be overcomeby manual or powered actuation to release retainer 12 within channel 16.Alternatively, a spring may be used to bias retainer 12 towards a freelymovable position and may be overcome by manual or powered actuation torestrict movement of retainer 12 within channel 16. Spring 20 may alsoserve as a clutching mechanism so that if too much pressure is exertedon the keyboard segments 6, 8, spring 20 allows for slippage betweenretainer 12 and channel 16. Suitable springs may include any suitablemechanical spring, resilient elastomeric material or other known biasingmechanism. In some cases, mechanical or electrical actuators may serveto urge retainers 12 and/or segments 6 or 8 towards deployed and/orstowed positions. In some implementations, the keyboard is moveablebetween stowed and deployed positions without the need for springs,biasing means, or actuators. For example, such movement may beaccomplished purely manually.

With reference to FIG. 10 and the accompanying exploded detail of FIG.11, keyboard segments 6, 8, are in a partially deployed position withretainers 12 being moveable within channels 16. Retainers 12 are shownin a released and unlocked position, which permits adjustment ofergonomic keyboard 2 by a user to a desired tented and splayed position.

With reference to FIG. 12 and the accompanying exploded detail of FIG.13, keyboard segments 6, 8 are held in tented position “C” via retainers12, which are restricted laterally within channels 16. Movement betweenthe partially deployed position of FIG. 10 and tented position “C” isaccomplished by inward lateral movement of one or more of retainers 12within channels 16. Upon movement of segments 6, 8 from the released,partially deployed position to tented position “C,” the user may engagea locking mechanism 22 to restrict outward lateral movement of one ormore of retainers 12 within channels 16.

With reference to FIGS. 11 and 13, locking mechanism 22 is depicted as alevered cam acting upon retainer 12. In a first position shown in FIG.11, locking mechanism 22 is actuated to overcome spring 20 and distanceretainer head 18 from a top frictional surface of channel 16. In asecond position shown in FIG. 13, locking mechanism 22 is retractedsomewhat to permit spring 20 to again urge retainer head 18 into contactwith frictional contact or mating contact with a surface of channel 16.Frictional contact may be provided between any portion of retainer 12and channel 16. “Mating contact” refers to positive engagement ofcooperative features to provide shear resistance to movement.

The pivotable or levered cammed mechanism is but one example of lockingmechanism 22. Any number of manually actuatable mechanisms such aslevers, push buttons, dials, sliders, cables, and the like may be usedto selectively restrict movement of retainers 12 and thereby movement ofsegments 6, 8 relative to base support 14. Powered actuators such assolenoids, worm drives, gear trains or the like may likewise be used toselectively restrict movement of retainers 12. It will be understoodthat locking mechanism 22 may be arranged on either keyboard 2 or basesupport 14 to suitably restrict retainer 12 within channel 16.Similarly, while retainers 12 are generally depicted as extending fromkeyboard 2 to be received within channels 16 formed in base support 14,retainers 12 may extend, instead from base support 14 to be received inchannels 16 formed in keyboard 2.

Accordingly, while some embodiments are depicted as including a lockingmechanism 22 and spring 20 associated with retainers 12, it will beunderstood that other embodiments are not so limited. For example, thesprings may be omitted or the locking mechanisms may be provided insteadat joint 10. Similarly, joint 10 may be self locking, e.g., due to jointfriction or other suitable resistance.

In some implementations, a locking mechanism structure includesubstantially alignable apertures defined in adjacent locking plates,wherein one or both of the locking plates is moveable to substantiallymisalign the apertures to bind upon and thereby lock a retainer disposedtherein. In some cases, relative positioning of the locking platesdetermines a retainer positioning and thereby a keyboard deployedposition.

In some implementations, the retainer includes a ball which may beseated in a recess in a stowed position. The retainer ball may beunseated from the recess to move the segments into a deployed position.For example, a splay actuator and/or tenting actuator, e.g., lever orcable, causes the retainer ball to slide within a channel formed on oneof the base support and a keyboard segment. A curved channel ornon-planar channel may serve to provide both tenting and splayingmotions.

In some implementations, actuators may act on the joint 10 withretainers 12 tracking or responsive to movement of joint 10.

In some implementations, thumbwheels or other rotary actuator serve tomove the keyboard segments between stowed and deployed positions. Forexample, the retainers may be an axle of a wheel restrained within achannel. Scrolling the wheel along the channel causes tenting and/orsplaying of the keyboard segments.

Alternatively, retainers 12 can include threaded knobs which may berotated to selectively permit and prevent keyboard segment movement. Forexample, one or more retainer knobs may be loosened to adjust one orboth of the splay and pitch of the keyboard segments.

Still in some implementations, underlying supports, e.g., pivotingbraces or columns, may be used to maintain the keyboard segments in adesired deployed position. In a particular implementation, theunderlying support is provided at the joint between the keyboardsegments.

In some implementations, segments 6, 8 may be additionally oralternatively maintained in a tented and/or splayed position viarestriction of joint 10 itself. As previously disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.6,984,081, joint 10 may be compressed into a frictionally restrictedstate or may be otherwise restricted in a desired position. For example,an elastomeric surface on one of a ball surface and a complementarysocket surface of joint 10 may be deformed in response to localizedcompression from a dimpled complementary surface. Alternatively,complementary projections and/or dimples on opposed joint surfaces maybe held in mating engagement via interference fit, a spring, latch orother suitable locking mechanism.

With reference to FIG. 14 and the accompanying exploded detail of FIG.15, keyboard segments 6, 8, are held in splayed position “D.” Retainers12 permit movement from a partially deployed position or even from atented position to splayed position “D” via rotation of retainers 12within channels 16. Splaying of segments 6, 8 involves a rotationmovement as well as translational movement of retainer 12. Splaying ofsegments 6, 8 about joint 10 causes inward movement of retainers 12 asjoint 10 travels forward towards the user. Splaying further causesrotation of or about retainer 12 as outer lower quadrants of keyboardsegments 6, 8 swing outward in response to forward movement of joint 10.

In some implementations, locking mechanism 22 is constructed to resistboth translation and rotation of retainers 12 within channels 16. Insome implementations, separate locking mechanisms may be provided toresist each movement separately. For example, in some implementations,constant resistance to rotation of retainer 12 may be provided,sufficient to resist forward or rearward movement of joint 10 duringnormal typing operations, yet subject to direct manual manipulation ofjoint 10 between deployed and stowed positions. Such limited slip orclutched arrangements may be achieved by frictional engagement or otherengagement of retainer head 12 and channel 16 under the force of spring20 or other suitable mechanism. Alternatively, sufficient rotationalresistance may be provided within joint 10 itself. For example, joint 10may be a ball and socket joint with sufficient interference fit topermit movement only under a predetermined degree of manual force.Alternatively, joint 10 may be selectively resistant, for example, viarelease of a compression fit within joint 10 via a manual actuator.

It may be further advantageous to provide for slippage or release of thelocking mechanism upon application of a predetermined downward pressure,for example during abrupt closure upon keyboard 2 of a laptop lidportion. In some implementations, closure of the laptop lid releases alocking mechanism to return keyboard 2 to a stowed position.Alternatively, in some implementations, the laptop lid is prevented fromclosing or may receive additional resistance to closure while keyboard 2is deployed. In some cases, cables, levers, push pins, or other suitablemechanical or electrical actuator may be associated with the laptop lidor lid hinge to act on a keyboard locking mechanism during laptop lidclosure. Such actuators may similarly be used to urge keyboard 2 into adeployed position during opening of the laptop lid. For example, a cablemay be drawn by laptop lid movement to urge retainers towards one of adeployed or stowed position.

With reference to FIG. 16, an upwardly deployable keyboard base 24serves to elevate at least a portion of keyboard 2 above base support14′. If supporting linkage 26 is retained at one end in channel 16″formed in base support 14′. Keyboard base 24 may be stowed as shown inFIG. 17, by collapsing of linkages 26 as springs 28 are compressedwithin channels 16″.

In some laptop integrated embodiments, segments 6, 8 are independentlyelectrically connected in parallel to laptop 4. In other embodiments,segments 6, 8 are electrically coupled in series to provide a singleoutput to laptop 4. Accordingly, segments 6, 8 may be electricallyconnected to or integrated with laptop 4 in any suitable manner. In someembodiments, it may be advantageous or desirable for the electricalconnections, e.g., data cables, to be located near retainers 12 tominimize the cable length or cable movement needed to accommodatetenting and/or splaying of keyboard segments 6, 8.

With reference to FIGS. 18, 19, 20 and 21, an adjustable ergonomickeyboard 102 includes keyboard segments 106 and 108 disposed on a standalone base support 114. Keyboard 102 is configured as a peripheral datainput device for use, for example, with a desktop computer 104. Keyboardsegments 106, 108 are coupled by a joint/10 and secured to base support114 by retainers 112. As previously described, joint/10 allows multipledegrees of freedom for tenting and splaying of keyboard 102.

With reference to FIG. 18, adjustable ergonomic keyboard 102 may bestored in a stowed position “A.” In stowed position “A,” keyboardsegments 106, 108 are positioned close to base support 114 in asubstantially planar, side-by-side arrangement. Of course, some usersmay elect to use keyboard 102 in the stored position in somecircumstances.

Base support 114 can be configured with a minimum thickness and masssufficient to support segments 106, 108. Such thin, lightweight designsmay be advantageous or desirable for portability or stylisticconsiderations. For example, a lightweight aluminum or plastic panel orframework may provide a suitable base support 114 for segments 106, 108.In some desktop applications, a more substantial base may beadvantageous or desirable for some users.

Base support 114 need not be coextensive with keyboard segments 106, 108to provide sufficient support. For example, base support 114 may extendonly under a portion of segments 106, 108 between retainers 112. In someimplementations, segments 106, 108 may include a lower protective panelor cover and may be arranged to directly contact an upper surface of adesk with keyboard 102 in the splayed and/or tented positions.Accordingly, in some implementations, base support 114 may serve tomaintain a relative position of retainers 112, without regard to contactbetween base support and any underlying surface.

Keyboard 102, including base support 114, may include any number of dataports or peripheral devices. For example, pointing devices or massstorage devices may be connected to keyboard 102 via USB port, PS2 portor other data ports. Similarly, any suitable connectivity orcommunication facilities, for example wireless communication viaBluetooth® technology, RF, IR, and the like may be used to connectkeyboard 102 to computer 104. Such data ports and communicationshardware may be housed on base support 114. For example, base support114 may include a housing portion along an upper edge portion for anynecessary hardware, batteries, data ports and the like.

Keyboard segments 106, 108 may be electrically coupled such that data isoutput from the segment pair from a single data port. For example, aflexible data cable or other suitable contact or electrical connectormay be provided between segments 106, 108 near joint 10. Additionally,an infrared, radio or other electromagnetic or optical signal may beused to transmit signals from the keyboard to the computing devicewithout the need for a cable or other physical connection.

Alternatively, segments 106, 108 may each include a separate data outputconnection. For example, each of keyboard segments 106, 108 may betreated, effectively, as a separate peripheral device. For example, asmall USB hub may be provided on base support 114 to receive input fromseparate USB connectors on the respective segments 106, 108 and toprovide a single output to computer 104. It may be advantageous toposition the data output connections near retainers 112 to minimize thelength and movement of the data output connections between keyboardsegment positions. Such a connection may be configured to accommodatethe fraction of an inch of lateral retainer travel and a predeterminedarc of keyboard segment travel for a range of tented and splayedpositions. Alternatively, electrical connections and data outputs mayreside entirely on segments 106, 108 without electrical connection tobase support 114. USB is but one example of wired connectivity and anynumber of other standards may be used to connect keyboard 102 as aperipheral or integrated device. In some cases, base support 114supports segments 106, 108 without any electrical connection thereto. Inother case, base support 114 carries data cables or other electricalcommunication devices.

With reference to FIG. 19, keyboard 102 is in a released, unlocked orpartially deployed position “B.” In partially deployed position “B”keyboard segments 106, 108 are moveable to a desired tented or splayedposition. Movement from stowed position “A” to partially deployedposition “B” may include a simple unlocking action and need not includesubstantial relative movement or separation of keyboard segments 106,108 from base support 114. In some cases, release of segments 106, 108from the stowed position provides sufficient separation of segments 106,108 from base support 114 to permit insertion of a user's fingerstherebetween to manipulate segments 106, 108 into the positions shown inFIGS. 20-21. In some implementations, keyboard segments 106, 108 may bebiased towards at least one of a partially splayed position and apartially tented position such that releasing segments 106, 108 fromstowed position “A” results in a partially splayed and/or partiallytented position.

With reference to FIG. 20, keyboard segments 106, 108 are in a tentedposition “C.” Tented position “C” is achieved by upward movement ofjoint 110 and inward movement of at least one of retainers 12 alongchannel 116 formed in base support 114.

With reference to FIG. 21, keyboard segments 106, 108 are in a splayedand tented position. Splayed position “D” is achieved by forwardmovement of joint 110, movement of at least one of retainers 12 alongchannel 116 formed in base support 114 and rotation of segments 106, 108about respective retainers 112. Keyboard segments 106, 108 may be lockedto resist movement from positions “C” and “D.” Advantageously, in somestand alone or desktop implementations, keyboard 2 may be more securelyfixed in positions “C” and “D” since there will be less need forrepeated keyboard setup as with portable laptop implementations.Similarly, resistance of keyboard 102 to flattening of tented position“C” may be greater absent other considerations present in a portablelaptop implementation.

Keyboard segments 106, 108 may include friction pads at points ofcontact with base support 114 or with an underlying surface to provideadditional resistance to movement during typing. For example, rubberfoot pads, or the like, may be provided at the lower outermostextremities of segments 106, 108 to frictionally engage base support 114or a desk and resist outward movement of segments 106, 108 underdownward pressure, e.g., during typing.

In some implementations, resistance to flattening of tented segments106, 108 may be provided by one locking mechanism and resistance tocounter-rotation of splayed segments by another mechanism. For example,resistance to flattening may be provided by any suitable tensilestructure between retainers 112, e.g., a rigid or semi-rigid base oreven a cable. Resistance to counter-rotation of splayed segments may beprovided by resistance at one or more of retainers 112 and joint 110. Ina particular implementation, resistance to rotation of segments 106, 108is provided at each of retainers 112 and joint 110, with release ofresistance at a selected one of retainers 112 or joint 110 allowing formanual rotation of segments 106, 108. In some implementations,sufficient resistance may be provided by joint 10 or 110 alone tomaintain position “C” and/or “D.”

In some implementations, base support 114 may include surface featuresconfigured to provide discrete positioning or incremental resistancepoints. For example, a series of depression or ridges may be provided onbase support 14 or 114 to more positively engage corresponding contactsurfaces of segments 106, 108.

In some implementations, a web may be provided between segments 106, 108to provide an appearance of central keyboard continuity in splayedposition “D”. Such a web may be slidably deployed from the undersidesegments 106, 108 and may contribute resistance to movement.

In some implementations, base support 14, 114 is adjustable tofacilitate movement of keyboard segments to positions “C” or “D.” Forexample, base support may be collapsible to move retainers 112 closertogether to achieve tented position “C.”

In each case, it will be understood that the configuration of the keyson segments 6, 8, 106, 108 may be in any suitable form which allowsaccess to the appropriate hand corresponding to segments 6, 8, 106, 108,and need not be the configuration shown in FIG. 1.

Similarly, segments 6, 9, 106, 108 may include virtual keys, e.g., keysdisplayed on a touch screen panel, membrane display, or other suitabledisplay besides a traditional vertically operable contact type key. Forexample, as an alternative to conventional mechanical switches, keyboardinputs may include pressure sensors, static sensors, position sensors,capacitance sensors, or other suitable contact or non-contact sensors.For example, segments 6, 9, 106, 108 may simply be projection surfacesfor use with a laser and infrared projected virtual keyboard. In someembodiments, segments 6, 8, 106, 108 a part of a membrane keyboard,dome-switch keyboard, scissor-switch keyboard, capacitive keyboard,mechanical-switch keyboard, buckling-spring keyboard, hall-effectkeyboard, or laser keyboard. Accordingly, any suitable manual data entrysystem may be presented on segments 6, 9, 106, 108 to be arranged in atented and/or splayed position by a user.

It should be appreciated that splaying of the segments 6, 8, 106, 108acts to prevent or reduce ulnar deviation of the user's hands andwrists, while pitching or “tenting” movement of segments 6, 8, 106, 108acts to prevent or reduce pronation of the user's wrists.

In some implementations, an optional support (not shown) may be providedgenerally below the hinge or joint 10, 110 so as to maintain the centralregion of the keyboard 2, 102 at a raised preselected level, if needed.

Operation and manipulation of the keyboard 2, 102 of the presentinvention will now be described. When it is desired to set a newposition of keyboard segments 6, 8, 106, 108 relative to one another,retainers 12, 112 and or joints 10, 110 are allowed to move, e.g.,translate and/or rotate, to accommodate splayed and/or tented keyboardpositions. After a desired orientation of the segments 6, 8, 106, 108relative to one another is achieved, the segments are held in positionby resistance at at least one of retainers 12, 112 and/or joints 10,110. In the locked position, keyboard 102 remains substantially asarranged under normal typing conditions.

While the forgoing represents a description of various embodiments orimplementations of the invention, it is to be understood that the claimsbelow recite the features of the present invention, and that otherembodiments, not specifically described hereinabove, fall within thescope of the present invention.

1. An apparatus comprising: first and second keyboard segments eachincluding on an upper surface thereof respective subsets of keys thattogether define a generally complete alphanumeric keyboard; a retainerextending from each of the first and second keyboard segments to retainthe respective keyboard segment with respect to a base support,respective retainers allowing the corresponding retained keyboardsegment to rotate thereabout and at least one of the retained keyboardsegments to travel laterally with respect to the base support; and ajoint coupling the keyboard segments and allowing the keyboard segmentsto pivot relative to one another.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinupward travel of the joint allows the keyboard segments to tent, andwherein at least one of the retainers allows an outer edge of therespective keyboard segment to travel laterally relative to the basesupport in correspondence with the tenting.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein substantially lateral travel of the joint allows the keyboardsegments to splay while each rotating correspondingly around arespective one of the retainers.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe joint and retainers are configured to allow the joined keyboardsegments to simultaneously tent and splay, while retained with respectto the base support.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the basesupport is an upper surface of a portable computing device.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising: at least one channel definedin the base support, wherein each of the retainers is connected to arespective one of the keyboard segments, and wherein the respectivechannel allows lateral travel of the respective retainer across aportion of the base support in correspondence with tenting of thekeyboard segments.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: atleast one channel defined in a lower surface of a respective keyboardsegment and configured to allow lateral travel of the respectivekeyboard segment with respect to the respective retainer, and whereineach of the retainers is generally fixed on the base support.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein, in a stowed position, the keyboardsegments are retained at a first, closely spaced distance from the basesupport; and wherein, in one or more deployed positions, the keyboardsegments are retained at a distance from the base support that exceedsthe first distance and accommodates tenting action of the keyboardsegments.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the one or more deployedpositions include at least one shifted forward keyboard position. 10.The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising: a spring concentric withat least one of the retainers to urge the respective keyboard segmentfrom the stowed position to at least one deployed position.
 11. Theapparatus of claim 8, further comprising: one or more latches to retainthe keyboard segments in the stowed position.
 12. The apparatus of claim1, wherein the base support includes a generally planar surface suitablefor affixing to an upper surface of a portable computing device, andwherein the retainers are coupled to the generally planar surface. 13.The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the generally planar surface isconfigured as a keyboard attachment platform having at least a stowedposition and a deployed position.
 14. The apparatus of claim 12, furthercomprising: at least one channel defined in the generally planarsurface, wherein one end of each of the retainers is connected to arespective one of the keyboard segments, and wherein the respectivechannel allows lateral travel of the respective retainer across aportion of the generally planar surface in correspondence with tentingof the keyboard segments.
 15. The apparatus of claim 12, furthercomprising: at least one channel defined in a lower surface of at leastone of the keyboard segments, wherein the respective channel allowslateral travel of the respective keyboard segment with respect to therespective retainer, and wherein the retainers are attached to thegenerally planar surface.
 16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at leastone of the retainers includes at a first end thereof a surfacefrictionally or matingly engageable with the base support to restricttravel of the respective retainer in a corresponding channel.
 17. Theapparatus of claim 16, further comprising: a locking mechanismconfigured to urge the frictionally or matingly engageable surface intoa held position and thereby maintain the keyboard segments in one of: atented position; a splayed position; and a tented and splayed position.18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the locking mechanism comprisessubstantially alignable apertures defined in adjacent locking plates,wherein at least one of the locking plates is moveable to substantiallymisalign the apertures to bind upon and thereby lock a retainer disposedtherein.
 19. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the retainers eachinclude at a second end thereof an at least partially convex end portionsuitable for attaching the corresponding retainer to the base supportwhile still allowing rotation freedom of movement in correspondence withtenting action of the keyboard segments.
 20. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the base support is a stand alone base and the apparatus isconfigured as a peripheral input device.
 21. The apparatus of claim 20,further comprising a wireless communications unit configured forwireless connection to a computer.
 22. The apparatus of claim 20,wherein keyboard segments are stackable and the base is configured toform a protective outer casing about the stacked keyboard segments. 23.The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a rotary actuatorconfigured to translate one of the keyboard segments relative to thebase support to effect a desired splayed or tented keyboard segmentposition.
 24. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an adjustablesplay actuator and a separately adjustable tenting actuator.
 25. Theapparatus of claim 24, wherein at least one of the splay actuator andthe tenting actuator is manually adjustable.
 26. The apparatus of claim24, wherein at least one of the splay actuator, the tenting actuator,and one of the retainers comprises a ball slidably received within achannel formed on one of the base support and a keyboard segment. 27.The apparatus of claim 24, further comprising at least one adjustablesupport on the base support configured to support at least one of thekeyboard segments on the base support over a range of splayed and tentedkeyboard segment positions.
 28. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein thebase support is adjustable to support the keyboard segments over a rangeof splayed and tented keyboard segment positions.
 29. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising first and second data output connectorspositioned respectively on the first and second keyboard segmentsadjacent the respective retainers.
 30. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinboth the respective retainer and data output connector are positionedsubstantially in an upper-outer quadrant of the respective keyboardsegment.
 31. The apparatus of claim 1, configured to allow for at leastone of splaying of about 30 degrees and tenting of about 30 degrees. 32.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one retainer comprises asubstantially rigid anchor substantially fixed to one of the basesupport and the respective keyboard segment and being one of slidableand pivotable relative to the other of the base support and therespective keyboard segment.
 33. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein atleast one retainer is substantially fixed to both the respectivekeyboard segment and the base support and is sufficiently pliable topermit splaying and tenting of the keyboard segments.
 34. A portablecomputing device comprising: a body portion; a screen containing lidportion hingedly attached to the body portion; the body portionpresenting a keyboard attachment surface having at least one channeldefined therein to receive a retainer of one of a respective first andsecond keyboard segment pivotably coupled at a joint, the channeladapted to allow the retainer to travel laterally with respect to thekeyboard attachment surface in correspondence with tenting and splayingof the keyboard segments.
 35. The portable computing device of claim 34,wherein a respective retainer allows the corresponding retained keyboardsegment to rotate thereabout and to travel laterally with respective tothe keyboard attachment surface.
 36. The apparatus of claim 34,configured to allow for at least one of splaying of about 30 degrees andtenting of about 30 degrees.